Not to be missed: Top 05 must see attractions in Milan

Milan is a city that seamlessly blends history, art, and stunning architecture, offering iconic attractions that capture its true essence. From cultural landmarks to breathtaking sights, these must-sees promise a well-rounded experience. And don’t miss our next article, where we’ll uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path treasures in Milan!

01. Duomo di Milano

The breathtaking Milan Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture from in 1386, it was not finished until 1965. It took 579 years to build. Take the lift or climb 256 steps to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city or explore its detailed interior. It’s even more stunning at night, illuminated by lights and with fewer people around to distract the view.

• Tickets: €5 for basic entry; €15 for rooftop access by stairs; €20 for elevator access. Tickets can be purchased online.
• Traditional Thing to Do: Climb to the rooftop terraces for breathtaking views of the city and admire the intricate spires up close.
• What to See: The stunning stained glass windows, the golden Madonnina statue on top, and the archaeological area underneath the cathedral.
• Location: Duomo di Milano

02. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Just steps from the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit destination in Milan. Built between 1865 and 1877 by the renowned architect Giuseppe Mengoni, this historic shopping arcade was part of a project to modernize Milan after its liberation in 1859. Named after Victor Emmanuel II, Italy’s first king, the Galleria combines stunning 19th-century architecture with luxury boutiques, cozy cafés, and an unforgettable atmosphere. A true Milanese icon, it’s perfect for both shopping and soaking in the city’s rich history.

• Tickets: Free entry; luxury stores and dining options are priced individually.
• Traditional Thing to Do: Spin on the bull mosaic in the center of the arcade for good luck, this is a VERY traditional must do thing while in Milan!
• What to See: The beautiful glass dome, mosaic flooring, and high-end fashion stores like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.
• Location: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

03. The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie

Visit the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie to see one of the world’s most famous paintings. Advice? Book ahead to see the mural that changed the course of art history, portraying the moment Jesus predicted his betrayal. Across the street is what remains of the vineyard that Ludovico Sforza gifted Leonardo as thanks for his works.

• Tickets: €15, including museum access; advance booking required.
• Traditional Thing to Do: Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece and learn about its history from a guide or audiobook. 
• What to See: The painting itself, preserved on the wall of the refectory, and the stunning architecture of the adjoining church.
• Location: Santa Maria delle Grazie

04. Sempione Park and Castello Sforzesco

Sempione Park is Milan’s green oasis in the middle of the city. The perfect place to unwind after exploring its bustling streets. It’s a favorite among locals for picnics and outdoor activities. Nearby, The Sforza family’s vast 15th-century castle is now a museum “Castello Sforzesco” with stunning Renaissance art. Whether you’re seeking to relax in nature or a great spot for history lovers, this is the place.

• Tickets: Free to enter the park; museum access in the castle is €5.
• Traditional Thing to Do: Enjoy a gelato while strolling through the park or relax near the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace).
• What to See: The castle’s courtyards, art museums (including Michelangelo’s unfinished “Rondanini Pietà”), and the picturesque park itself.
• Location: Sempione Park and Castello Sforzesco

05. Pinacoteca di Brera and District

This charming neighborhood is a haven of art galleries, picturesque streets, and outstanding dining options. It’s home to the Pinacoteca di Brera, where you can admire masterpieces by Raphael and Caravaggio, along with Francesco Hayez’s iconic painting The Kiss (1859). Take your time to enjoy the classic Milanese dishes like risotto alla milanese or ossobuco.

• Tickets: Free to wander; prices vary for dining and visiting art galleries like the Pinacoteca di Brera (€12 entry).
• Traditional Thing to Do: Enjoy an aperitivo at a cozy café and explore the art galleries.
• What to See: Charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Pinacoteca di Brera for its world-class art collection.
• Location: Pinacoteca di Brera

Last tip: On the first Sunday of the month the national museums are free! 

Each destination is a short walk, metro, or taxi ride from YellowSquare Milan, making it the perfect base to explore this vibrant city!
Keep reading us to unlock the hidden gems and next tips, also at the YellowSquare you can meet people to explore with you or get valuables advices from the team.
Location: YellowSquare Milan

See you 😉

This time we want to go off the beaten paths and start off from exploring Milan’s vibrant Porta Romana district. It isn’t complete without indulging in some of the city’s finest gelato as we go closer to the historical center and monuments. Here are three must-visit gelaterias, each offering unique flavors and experiences.

Check our gelatour page for more details and to jump into this discovery with new friends: Gelatour YellowSquare Milan

So let’s check out the 3 best ice cream shops you should be aware of when visiting Milan.

1) Gelateria PiccoLina

Nestled on Via Orti 17, Gelateria PiccoLina is a hidden gem celebrated for its artisanal approach to gelato-making. This cozy spot offers a delightful array of flavors crafted with high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Why do we recommend it?

• Authentic Flavors: Experience traditional Italian gelato with a modern twist, featuring both classic and innovative flavors.
• Quality Ingredients: Committed to using fresh, natural ingredients without artificial additives.
• Charming Atmosphere: The intimate setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying your gelato.

Distance from YellowSquare Milan: Approximately a 10-minute walk.
Google Maps
Instagram: @piccolinagelateria

2) Gelateria Porta Romana

Located at Corso di Porta Romana 126, this gelateria is renowned for its wide selection of flavors and creamy textures. Its strategic location makes it an ideal stop during your city explorations.

Why do we recommend it?

• Diverse Selection: Offers a vast variety of flavors, catering to all taste preferences.
• Vegan Options: Provides high-quality vegan gelato, ensuring inclusivity for all dietary needs.
• Convenient Location: Situated near notable landmarks, making it a perfect refreshment stop.

Distance from YellowSquare Milan: Approximately a 15-minute walk.
Google Maps
Instagram: @gelateriaportaromana

3) Ciacco. Gelato Senz’altro

Situated at Via Spadari 13, Ciacco is acclaimed for its innovative flavors and commitment to natural ingredients. This gelateria prides itself on creating gelato without additives, ensuring a pure and delightful taste experience.

Why do we recommend it?

• Innovative Flavors: Regularly updates its menu with creative and seasonal offerings.
• Natural Ingredients: Focuses on additive-free gelato, highlighting the authentic taste of each component.
• Central Location: Located in the heart of Milan, it’s an excellent spot to recharge during your city tour.

Distance from YellowSquare Milan: Approximately a 20-minute walk or a short ride on public transport.
Google Maps

Now that you’ve got the scoop on Milan’s best gelato spots, you can totally brag to your friends about knowing where to find the real deal. Next time someone’s heading to Milan, you’ll be their go-to gelato guide!

IN ITALY EVERY FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH THE MUSEUMS ARE FOR FREE!

FLORENCE

#domenicalmuseo is now a fixed appointment with Free museums Florence. Every first Sunday of the month it is possible to get a free ticket to visit the most important state monuments of the city. Both you are planning a weekend in the next month and you are thinking of a year-end holiday you have to know that there is always the possibility of free admission to the museums on the first Sunday of the calendar.

Usually the state free museums Florence participating in the initiative are the following:

• Uffizi Gallery
  Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6 – Florence
• Museums of Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens
  Piazza Pitti, 1 – Florence
• Accademy’s Gallery
  Via Ricasoli, 58-60 – Florence
• Garden of the Medici Villa of Castello
  Via di Castello, 44 – Florence
• MAF National Archaeological Museum of Florence
  S.S. Annunziata, 9 – Florence
• Last Supper by Andrea del Sarto in San Salvi
  via di San Salvi, 16 – 50135 Florence (FI)
• Bargello National Museum
  Via del Proconsolo, 4 – Florence
• Park of Villa Il Ventaglio
  Via G. Aldini, 10/12 – Florence
• Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi and Historical Museum of Hunting and the Territory
  via Ponti Medicei, 7 – 50050 Cerreto Guidi (FI)

ROME

Public museums free of charge for all visitors

The museums free of charge for everybody on the first Sunday of the month are:

• Colosseum and Forum (access subject to quota)
• Galleria Borghese (mandatory booking, 2 €)
• GNAM Galleria Nazionale Arte Moderna (Modern Art National Gallery)
• Museo nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia (Etruscan national museum)
• Museo HC Andersen, Museo M. Praz, Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi per le Arti decorative e il Costume
• Museo nazionale Romano (Palazzo Massimo, Palazzo Altemps, Crypta Balbi, Terme di Diocleziano)
• Galleria nazionale d’Arte Antica Palazzo Barberini (national gallery of ancient art Palazzo Barberini)
• Galleria nazionale d’Arte Antica Palazzo Corsini (national gallery of ancient palazzo Corsini)
• Galleria Spada
• Museo nazionale di Palazzo Venezia (national museum of Piazza Venezia)
• Museo nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo (National museum of Castel Sant’Angelo – access subject to quota)
• Museo nazionale d’Arte Orientale “G. Tucci” (Eastern art national museum G. Tucci)
• Museo nazionale Preistorico Etnografico “L. Pigorini”(prehistoric national museum L. Pigorini)
• Museo nazionale delle Arti e Tradizioni Popolari (National Museum of people’s traditions and art)
• Museo nazionale dell’Alto Medioevo (Middle Age national museum)
• Museo nazionale degli Strumenti Musicali (Musical instrument national museum)
• Scavi di Ostia Antica (Ostia Antica digs)
• Museo Ostiense
• Mausoleo di Cecilia Metella
• Terme di Caracalla
• Villa dei Quintili
• Villa Adriana in Tivoli
• Villa d’Este in Tivoli

Also Maxxi belongs to this category. It’s the national museum of modern art (XXI century) where access is always free for the permanent collection (gallery 4) from Tuesday to Friday besides the first Sunday of the month..

MILAN

Here is a list of the museums which have adhered to the initiative up to now:

• Cenacolo Vinciano
  Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie 2 (booking required)
• Galleria d’arte moderna di Milano, Museo dell’ottocento, Villa Reale, Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte
  Via Palestro 16
• Gallerie d’Italia
  Piazza della Scala 6   
• Acquario e civica stazione idrobiologica – municipal aquariumViale Gadio 2
• Casa museo Boschi-di Stefano
  Via Giorgio Jan 15
• Castello Sforzesco
  Piazzale Castello
• Museo Studio Francesco Messina
  Via S. Sisto 4a
• Museo archeologico di Milano
  Corso Magenta 15
• Museo civico di storia naturale di Milano
  Corso Venezia 55
• Museo del Risorgimento and workshop of modern and contemporary history
  Via Borgonuovo 23
• Museo diocesano di Milano
  Corso di Porta Ticinese 95
• Palazzo Morando – traditions and fashion
  Via Sant’Andrea 6